Does the Dodge Dart have a v8?
The modern Dodge Dart does not use a V8 engine. In its 2013–2016 North American production run, the Dart was powered by four-cylinder engines, with no V6 or V8 option. Historically, the Dart name did appear on models in the 1960s and 1970s that offered V8 power, but that legacy is separate from the modern car.
Modern engine lineup
The Dart sold in recent years offered two primary four-cylinder engines, along with the option of manual or automatic transmissions. There is no V8 or V6 in the contemporary lineup.
Engine options for the modern Dodge Dart included:
- 2.0-liter Tigershark inline-4, roughly 160 horsepower
- 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-4, roughly 184 horsepower
In short, the modern Dart relies on four-cylinder power rather than a V8, prioritizing efficiency and everyday practicality over high-displacement performance.
Historical V8 legacy
Looking back, the Dodge Dart name is rooted in the muscle-car era. The original Darts from the 1960s and early 1970s offered several V8 options as part of a broader lineup that included performance-oriented trims and body styles. Those V8 configurations were part of a very different automotive landscape and were not carried over into the later compact Dart revival in the 2010s.
Why the modern Dart didn’t get a V8
Auto makers often tailor powertrains to market needs, packaging, and cost. The modern Dart was designed as a compact sedan under a fuel-economy-conscious regime, with emissions regulations and production costs guiding engine choices. A V8 would have added weight, reduced efficiency, and increased complexity—outcomes that conflicted with the Dart’s intended role.
Summary
The Dodge Dart, in its current generation, does not offer a V8. It relies on two four-cylinder engines (2.0L and 2.4L Tigershark) to deliver its balance of efficiency and performance. For V8 power, buyers must look to the classic Dart eras or other Dodge models designed around larger displacement engines.
Which Dodge has a V8 engine?
Dodge's current V8-powered cars are limited to the Durango SUV, as the brand discontinued its V8 muscle cars like the Charger and Challenger after 2023. However, Dodge has also announced that it will release a V8-powered drag race car for the 2026 model year and there is speculation that a V8 muscle car may return in the future.
Current lineup
- Dodge Durango: The only current model available with a V8 engine, the Durango can be equipped with a 5.7L naturally aspirated or a 6.2L supercharged V8.
Discontinued models
- Dodge Challenger: Production of the Challenger ended in 2023, but many V8 models are still available on the used market.
- Dodge Charger: Similar to the Challenger, the Charger was also discontinued after the 2023 model year, but V8 models are available used.
- Dodge Magnum: A discontinued V8-powered wagon.
- Dodge Dart: Some older versions of the Dart were available with V8 engines.
Future and special models
- 2026 Dodge Charger Drag Pak: A purpose-built, non-street-legal drag racing car that features a 5.7L Hemi V8, it demonstrates that a V8 can fit in the new Charger body style.
- Future V8 muscle cars: While the V8 muscle car was discontinued, there is speculation that Dodge may bring back a V8-powered muscle car in the future, but nothing has been confirmed.
Is there a Dodge Dart Hellcat?
The custom 1968 Dodge Dart hardtop—nicknamed “Blow Dart”—equipped with a 6.2 L HEMI® HELLCAT V8 and Kenne Bell supercharger, is set to cross the block at Mecum Auctions Kansas City from December 4-6, 2025.
What engine is in a Dodge Dart?
The modern Dodge Dart (2012-2016) offered three main engine options: a 2.0-liter Tigershark 4-cylinder, a 2.4-liter Tigershark 4-cylinder, and a 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged 4-cylinder. The 2.0L was the base engine, while the 2.4L provided more horsepower, and the 1.4L turbo was available on certain trims for a balance of power and fuel economy.
Engine options
- 2.0-liter Tigershark 4-cylinder: This was the standard base engine, producing around 160 horsepower.
- 2.4-liter Tigershark 4-cylinder: A more powerful option, generating approximately 184 horsepower.
- 1.4-liter MultiAir turbocharged 4-cylinder: This engine also produced about 160 horsepower but delivered more torque, making it feel livelier in real-world driving situations.
Transmission options
- A 6-speed manual transmission was available with all engines.
- A 6-speed automatic transmission was optional on the 2.0L and 2.4L engines.
- A 6-speed dual-clutch transmission was available for the 1.4L turbo engine.
Is there a V8 Dodge Dart?
The Dart GTS came standard with the 340 cu in (5.6 L) V8. A 300 hp (220 kW) 383 cu in (6.3 L) big-block was optional.
